My youngest, a 5th grader, comes home every day with tales of a new friend, a story about how her math teacher likes to play 80's music in class, and what she devoured for lunch. To say she's having no problem adjusting is an understatement! She's thriving!
Our middle child, a boy, is a little more reserved about the whole thing. Being a 6th grader and in public school for the first time ever is a lot for him to deal with. He's slower to make friends, although he has made a couple. His schedule is hectic (9 classes!) and he's constantly worrying that he's forgetting something important. I can't wait to meet his teachers with the hope of letting them in on a few things that I think will help this new adventure be smooth sailing. Our son, in some ways, is not your typical 11-year old boy.
The oldest, in 8th grade, has obviously been homeschooled the longest. But of the three, she's the one I worry about the least. She's sensible and practical. So far for her, school is a place to learn...not just a social activity in and of itself. The relationships she cultivates will probably be ones that last a lifetime, both with her peers and her teachers.
So what am I going to do with myself after having a child or children with me almost constantly for the last 13 years? I haven't exactly figured that out yet...but I've got some ideas. There are always projects around the house that need to be done. Some that have needed doing for years and others that haven't even been thought up yet. This week I kept up with all the laundry and dishes for the first time in...well, ever. I also did a little sewing. But I'm not going to make this time all about me. I hope to use it to cultivate my own relationships, both with my peers and my children's teachers and peers. I plan on visiting the schools a lot...finding out what opportunities are available for involved parents. And eating lunch with my kids, of course. As long as that doesn't embarrass them too much. LOL
I started and finished one small project this past week. I knew I needed a place to keep up with our new schedules, permission slips, lunch menus, etc. So I "stole" the bulletin board out of the old schoolroom and hung it on the door that goes into the garage. I got this great idea from Amy at Cartwheels In My Mind. Just like Amy, I painted the cork to match the walls in the laundry room. I added some cute tacks and embellishments and voila! Our new control central!
What kinds of organizational tips do you utilize to get back in the swing of school?
